Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes

Question

I shipped an item recently using domestic ground package mail using an eBay label and correct weight and dimensions, and when the item arrived I was charged an additional corrected shipping amount. I am about to send my next shipment using the Priority Mail Medium Box. That size used to be $19.95 USPS price, but now the price is listed as $22.95. Of course I am using an eBay label to receive the discounted price of $13.43. But am I going to be charged another $3 after shipping to the customer? I...

eastlaneave · Answer

@e4kbb

To use the Medium Flat Rate Box (free from the Post office) you must also

Medium Flat Rate Postage from the shipping calculator

The cost will be 18.50 to 19.60

If you see less than that, you are likely choosing regular Priority Mail.

You could buy your own box, enter the weight and dimensions and ship Priority Mail without using the free box.

I don't find USPS Flat Rate boxes to be particularly cost effective anymore unless something is very very heavy.

1) If you buy your own box, you can ship Ground Advantage or Priority Mail.

2) If you *order* free boxes from USPS that don't say 'Flat Rate' you can ship using Priority Mail.

3) If you use the boxes labeled Flat Rate (found at most Post Offices), you must use the 'USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate xxx Box' price. This is usually more expensive than the other options.

You can order free boxes here: https://store.usps.com/store/shipping-supplies#content

PS if you chose to Ship Ground Advantage, your listing needs to have Ground Advantage as the shipping method.